Guidelines on the use of fish
pedicures have been issued by environmental health officers after
national newspaper stories branding them dangerous have been
circulating this week.
Hambleton and Richmondshire officers say that
although the risk of catching an infection is low, it cannot be
completely excluded.
And they want to alert local people to
measures to prevent infections being caught or passed on when
having a treatment. The use of garra rufa fish in
pedicures is growing rapidly – the freshwater carp nibble off dead
and thickened skin.
Officers are urging local people to use only
reputable, clean salons where trained staff inspect your feet
before the treatment. This will include checks for
broken skin and infections – and after the treatment for signs of
bleeding. Feet should be washed with soap and water
before the treatment.
The Health Protection Agency has identified a
number of health conditions which may mean pedicures are not
advisable:
- Leg waxing or shaving in last 24 hours
- Any open cuts/wounds/abrasions/broken skin on the feet or lower
legs
- Infection on the feet - including athlete’s foot,
verruca
- Psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis affecting the feet or lower
legs
- Diabetes - increased risk of infection
- Infection with a blood borne virus such as Hepatitis B or
Hepatitis C or HIV
- Any immune deficiency due to illness or medication
- Bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant medication - heparin or
warfarin
Anyone with concerns about beauty salons or
treatments should call Hambleton and Richmondshire environmental
health officers on 0845 1211 555.
October 21, 2011
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